Postdoc, Conservation Science: CWD Risk & Stakeholder Research

The University of Massachusetts Amherst; Amherst (MA); On-site; USD 63,000 - 71,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of Massachusetts Amherst invites applications for a Postdoctoral Research Associate to lead human dimensions and quantitative wildlife disease research on chronic wasting disease in Massachusetts.

The position involves analyzing statewide stakeholder surveys, facilitating a multi-agency tabletop exercise, and co-designing communication materials and decision tools with MassWildlife, USGS, and partner institutions.

Qualifications

• PhD in a relevant field as listed.
• Experience with quantitative analysis in R.
• Evidence of scientific writing (publications or reports).
• Strong written and oral communication and collaboration with partners.

Responsibilities

• Analyze three statewide CWD stakeholder surveys to quantify knowledge, attitudes, and regulation-relevant behaviors.
• Assist design and co-facilitate an in-person, multi-agency tabletop exercise (1.5 day) that simulates detection scenarios.
• Translate tabletop results into a revised reactive-response section and a decision tree linking actions.
• Co-design pre-positioned communication materials with outreach staff and data from surveys.
• Lead and co-author peer-reviewed manuscripts, write reports, and prepare code and data for release.

Skills

Quantitative analysis in R

Scientific writing

Strong communication skills

Education

PhD in human dimensions of natural resources, conservation social science, ecology, conservation, epidemiology, wildlife science, or related field

Job description

The University of Massachusetts Amherst invites applications for a Postdoctoral Research Associate to lead human dimensions and quantitative wildlife disease research on chronic wasting disease in Massachusetts.

The position involves analyzing statewide stakeholder surveys, facilitating a multi-agency tabletop exercise, and co-designing communication materials and decision tools with MassWildlife, USGS, and partner institutions.